As part of our summer series diving into Kentucky basketball’s most iconic jersey numbers, today we spotlight a number that’s quietly produced some big-time contributors: No. 20.
This jersey has been worn by players from nearly every era of Kentucky basketball—from the pre-war years to the championship run in 2012. Though the number doesn’t boast as many household names as others, it has seen its share of sharp-shooters, leaders, and clutch performers.
Here’s our ranking of the Top 3 Wildcats to ever wear No. 20, based solely on what they accomplished while at Kentucky—no NBA stats, no transfer resumes, just what they did in the blue and white.
No. 3 — Jim Master (1980–84)
Games: 121
Points: 1,283
FG%: 48.6%
FT%: 84.9%
Assists: 254
Jim Master was the definition of a pure shooter. A steady hand in Joe B. Hall’s backcourt, Master delivered season after season with precision from the field and elite accuracy at the free-throw line. His 84.9% from the stripe remains one of the best in Kentucky history. Though he never picked up major national honors, Master was a consistent scoring threat on strong Kentucky teams.
No. 2 — Jimmy Dan Conner (1972–75)
Games: 85
Points: 1,009
FG%: 50%
Awards: 2× All-SEC Third Team, NCAA Regional Team (1975), Academic All-American
A Kentucky native with BBN in his blood, Jimmy Dan Conner did it all—on the court and in the classroom. Conner was a key part of the Wildcats’ run to the 1975 NCAA Championship game and was known for his clutch postseason performances. Blending scoring efficiency with leadership, Conner’s impact went far beyond the box score.
No. 1 — Doron Lamb (2010–12)
Games: 78
Points: 1,018
3PT%: 47.5%
FT%: 81.1%
Accolades: 2012 NCAA Champion, Final Four All-Tournament Team, All-SEC Second Team
There’s no question who tops the list. Doron Lamb was a sniper—and a champion. A key figure in John Calipari’s legendary 2012 title team, Lamb hit shot after shot in big moments, including 22 points in the national championship game against Kansas. His nearly 48% shooting from deep is one of the highest marks in school history, and his postseason heroics put him in elite territory among Kentucky guards.
Honorable Mention — Gayle Rose
Though his stats may not leap off the page, Gayle Rose left a lasting legacy in the 1950s, so much so that his jersey is retired—a rare honor. His contributions during a foundational era of Kentucky basketball are still deeply respected.
Final Thoughts
While No. 20 may not have the superstar depth of other Kentucky numbers, it represents a mix of sharpshooting, leadership, and championship pedigree. From Doron Lamb’s title-clinching threes to Jimmy Dan Conner’s all-around excellence and Jim Master’s steadiness, the players who wore this number quietly carved out their place in Kentucky’s storied legacy.
Up Next: Who Wore No. 21 Best?
We’re moving on to jersey No. 21 tomorrow, and a certain sharpshooter from Compton might be making an appearance. Stay tuned.
And if you missed it, check out our look back at the best Wildcats to ever wear No. 19.
